Two former Parramatta Eels players are accused of harbouring semi-automatic weapons and possessing more than half-a-million dollars in cash after dramatic arrests in Sydney's Centennial Park yesterday.

Death of police dog inspires community fundraiser for K-9 bulletproof vests

A police dog that was killed during a shootout with a burglary suspect in Ohio in the United States has motivated the local community to donate money for K-9 bulletproof vests.

A pet blogger has helped raise more than $US34,000 within a day after setting up an online fundraiser to help make sure all the dogs at the Canton police department have a bulletproof vest to wear.

Jethro the police dog was shot three times last weekend after police responded to a burglary alarm at a local business.

“He was shot numerous times and the bullets missed all the vital organs and bones. Brain swelling is the main concern and pain management. The outpouring of support has been amazing,” the Police K-9 Association initially wrote on Facebook.

But as time went on Jethro’s condition worsened and he passed away several days later.

“It is with heavy hearts that we must tell you all that we lost Jethro. He took a sudden turn for the worse and has passed,” the association confirmed.

A service has been scheduled for later this week to honour the work Jethro has done for the force.